100 youth volunteers, 60 children, 3 heritage trails – the outcome? A walk definitely to be remembered.
On 24 September 2016, passionate Youth Corps Singapore volunteers brought children from diverse family backgrounds on an outing to discover the Singapore story.. The outing, called “A Walk to Remember”, is part of Youth Corps’ Common Space for Common Good initiative. The young and even younger ones had the opportunity to learn about Singapore’s history, achievements and challenges, through meaningful activities at several heritage sites. The programme launched with a big bang, with three different trails running concurrently – Peeking into the Past, Living in the Present and Moving towards the Future.
LEARNING ABOUT THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE
Going back in time to Singapore’s founding years, the children learnt from prominent characters such as the Samsui Woman and the olden day Policeman!
Learning about trade in Singapore’s early years from a Samsui Woman
Learning about Singapore’s Public Warning System
Then they moved on to the current day where they learnt about Singapore’s cultural groups, the meaning behind our national anthem, Majulah Singapura and participated in art activities.
Getting ready for the art activity!
MOVING TOWARDS THE FUTURE
Hui Li with her caring volunteer
At the “Future” trail, the children were engaged in an Amazing Race at Marina Barrage and Gardens by the Bay., They had a whale-of-time learning how Singapore stays ahead by creating a sustainable environment. Hui Li, age 7, exclaimed, “Today’s (activities) were fun and I like my jiejie buddy!”
CHAMPIONING THE ASPIRATIONS OF THE YOUNG AND YOUNGER
Mr Lee interacting with volunteers and children
Through sustainable partnerships with National Heritage Board and Big Heart Student Care, Youth Corps also makes the dreams of youths a reality by providing diverse opportunities for them to serve the next generation. One of the unique roles is being a Station Master, where volunteers can dress up with costumes and role play to make learning fun and visual!
As highlighted by Mr Desmond Lee, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, “Youth Corps… is providing an all rounded way to give young Singaporeans an opportunity to serve the community”.
THE WALK DOESN’T END HERE
For many of the volunteers who took time off to serve the community, the launch “A Walk To Remember” is also a milestone for them in their volunteering journey.
“I would like to become a Youth Corps Leader and serve at other community events!” said Eugene Tan, 23, who signed up as a Station Master after the meaningful experience he had as a Volunteer Befriender during its pilot run in June.
Looking forward to more activities in the months and years ahead! If you’d like to be part of “A Walk to Remember” and be an older sister or brother to the children, check out https://www.youthcorps.sg/Public/ViewProject/802 for volunteering opportunities.
Definitely a walk to remember!
~ Contributed by Lee Ci En, Youth Corps Advocate and Cohort 4 Aspirant.
